Start Your Nonprofit With Confidence

Form a nonprofit corporation and pursue 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. Charitable, educational, religious, and other mission-driven organizations—we guide you every step of the way.

Start Your Nonprofit

Nonprofit Incorporation

Articles of Incorporation for charitable entities

501(c)(3) Guidance

IRS tax-exempt status support

Donor Tax Deductions

Qualified nonprofits enable donor write-offs

Benefits

Benefits of Nonprofit Status

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit enjoys tax exemptions, donor incentives, and credibility that for-profits do not.

Federal Tax Exemption: 501(c)(3) organizations generally don't pay federal income tax on revenue related to their exempt purpose.
Donor Tax Deductions: Donors can deduct contributions to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations, making fundraising more attractive.
Grants & Institutional Funding: Many foundations and government grants require 501(c)(3) status. Qualification opens doors to substantial funding.

501(c)(3) Requirements

Your nonprofit must meet these for tax-exempt status.

Charitable, educational, religious, scientific, or literary purpose
No private inurement (no profits to individuals)
Limited lobbying and no political campaign activity
Assets dedicated to exempt purpose upon dissolution

Simple Process

Form Your Nonprofit in 3 Steps

Incorporate

Form a nonprofit corporation in your state with Articles of Incorporation that include required 501(c)(3) language.

Adopt Bylaws & Governance

Create bylaws, appoint a board of directors, and hold your organizational meeting. We provide templates and guidance.

Apply for 501(c)(3)

File Form 1023 or Form 1023-EZ with the IRS. We help you prepare the application and organize required documents.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 501(c)(3) organization?

A 501(c)(3) is a federally tax-exempt nonprofit organized for charitable, educational, religious, scientific, or literary purposes. Donations to qualified 501(c)(3)s are tax-deductible for donors. The IRS grants this status after reviewing an application (Form 1023 or 1023-EZ).

How long does 501(c)(3) approval take?

Processing times vary. Form 1023-EZ (for smaller nonprofits) can be approved in 2–4 weeks. Form 1023 (longer application) often takes 3–6 months or more. The IRS may request additional information, which can extend the timeline.

Can a nonprofit make a profit?

Yes. Nonprofits can generate surplus revenue (profit), but it must be used to advance the organization's mission, not distributed to private individuals. "Nonprofit" refers to the absence of owners or shareholders who profit, not the absence of revenue.

Do I need to incorporate before applying for 501(c)(3)?

Generally yes. The IRS expects a legal entity. Most 501(c)(3)s are formed as nonprofit corporations at the state level first, then apply to the IRS. Some unincorporated associations can qualify, but incorporation is the standard and recommended path.

What's the difference between Form 1023 and Form 1023-EZ?

Form 1023-EZ is a streamlined application for smaller nonprofits (projected annual gross receipts under $50,000 and assets under $250,000). Form 1023 is the full application for larger or more complex organizations. We help you determine which form applies.

Ready to Start Your Nonprofit?

Form your nonprofit corporation and begin the path to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

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